We began working in San Diego in 1984 as a chapter of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and adopted our present name in 1988 when PeTA's chapter system terminated.

We are dedicated to eliminating animal abuse, suffering and exploitation through education and community outreach and involvement. Our concept of compassion extends to and includes all sentient creatures, domestic and wild, captive and free. We encourage putting a compassionate philosophy into practice in our lifestyles by promoting a vegan diet and cruelty-free products.

While our focus is mainly on issues in San Diego, we support state and national campaigns as well. We are all volunteers, nobody receives a salary, and we rely strictly on donations to continue our work.